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Moumoujus

SODIUM BICARBONATE.

Questionable CAS 144-55-8 / ABRASIVE, BUFFERING, DEODORANT, ORAL CARE, SKIN PROTECTING

Sodium bicarbonate, commonly known as baking soda, is a versatile ingredient utilized in skincare for its cleansing and mild exfoliating properties. It assists in maintaining skin hygiene and supporting the skin's natural balance, though its alkaline nature requires careful formulation.

Summary

abrasive buffering deodorant oral care skin protecting

Science

Mechanism of Action

Sodium bicarbonate functions as an abrasive agent, aiding in the removal of surface impurities and dead skin cells, thereby contributing to skin cleansing and protection against infections like acne through gentle exfoliation and cell turnover promotion. It also acts as a buffering agent, helping to maintain the skin's acidic mantle and neutralize excess acidity. As a skin-protecting agent, it may reduce premature aging and irritation. Its absorbent properties help manage excess oil, while its antimicrobial effects potentially inhibit C. acnes growth and demonstrate in vitro antifungal activity, also contributing to reduced inflammation.

Research

Clinical Evidence

Medium confidence
Effective range 2–5%
Optimal

N/A

Key findings

  1. 01 A 5% concentration was found to be well-tolerated and effective for preoperative skin preparation, demonstrating superior patient satisfaction compared to 75% isopropyl alcohol, without compromising bacterial reduction.
  2. 02 A 2% topical gel was generally well-tolerated for various skin conditions, including eczema and acne; however, some individuals reported instances of irritation, redness, or itching.
  3. 03 A 30% topical formulation did not improve psoriatic lesions and was noted for slight dermal irritation.

Transparency

Dusting Analysis

Not commonly dusted

The Formula

Formulation

Solubility
Water
Optimal pH N/A
0 7 14

Stability

A 1% solution of sodium bicarbonate typically exhibits a pH between 8.0 and 8.6, maintaining an alkaline pH range of 8 to 9. This alkaline nature has the potential to disrupt the skin's natural acidic mantle, normally ranging from pH 4.5-5.5, potentially leading to increased dryness and irritation.

Conflicts

  • Strong acids (as it acts as a buffering agent)
  • Conditions of excessive alkalinity (which can compromise the skin's essential oils and disrupt the acid mantle)
  • Inadequately diluted amounts in hair care (potentially leading to reduced hair elasticity and increased breakage of hair strands)

Safety

Safety Profile

CIR Status
Safe as used
Max tested
30.8%
Sensitization risk Moderate

The CIR Expert Panel consistently affirmed sodium bicarbonate as 'safe as presently used in cosmetic products,' most recently in December 2023. Maximum reported use in 'Other Skin Care Preparations' is 30.8%. It is approved by the FDA as an OTC skin protectant and anticaries active ingredient, and holds GRAS status for direct food addition.

Your Skin

Skin Compatibility

No Normal
No Dry
Yes Oily
No Sensitive
Irritancy Medium
Comedogenicity Unknown

Our Assessment

Verdict

Questionable

While recognized as safe in certain cosmetic applications and offering benefits like oil control and exfoliation, sodium bicarbonate's alkaline pH and medium irritancy necessitate cautious formulation to prevent skin barrier disruption.

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